You read about it all the time: someone was fired for what they said on Facebook or what they “tweeted” on Twitter? How smart are you when it comes to social media? I’ll be the first to say I am still learning! But here are some “Do’s and Don’ts” to help guide you along the way.
DO:
Limit the number of outlets you participate: I’ve chosen to participate only with three media outlets: Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Each have their own specific purpose. LinkedIn is a professional outlet that allows individuals to network with other professionals. It is a great venue to publish your work history, education, and projects. It is also a great way to build up your credibility as a subject matter expert by participating in their Q & A section. I’ve actually made additional contacts because other professionals were impressed with how I answered their questions. I’ve also used LinkedIn to prospect for clients and vendors. Although I recommend doing this, it should be noted that one should not abuse this. If you do not know the individual you want to meet, request an introduction from your contact who does know the professional. Many people still don’t get Twitter. As soon as it became available, I got it! What better way to concisely communicate (140 characters only please) to those interested in your projects or events (professional or personal). Twitter also allows like minded people to communicate or feel closer to those they admire. Apollo Ohno answered one of my questions. Now how damn cool is that! Facebook allows you to share with friends and professionals what is going on in your life. It’s a great way to share photos and special moments. Because I’ve moved around a lot, this tool has allowed me to stay in touch with friends all over the world and not have to wait until I seem them during the summer or send a Christmas card! Although these sites allow us to stay in touch, are they really allowing us to be more “social”? Nothing will ever compare with face to face interaction when it comes to building lasting relationships.
Be creative: Being creative will entice more people to read about you and what you’re doing, which is what you should want in the first place. My Twitter name is ThomasinaTheCat. Don’t read too much into it. I picked the name because of an old Walt Disney movie with this title. Instead of being Thomasina#2748, ThomasinaTheCat sounded a little more intriguing. Sometimes it gains attention I don’t want. I simply block those people. :) When it comes to writing a status update in Facebook, I try to not only convey a current thought or idea, but I also try to use one of the 4 E’s of art: enlighten, educate, escape, or entertain. Which comment sounds more interesting- “Tomorrow is Lent” or “Enjoy your Fat Tuesday...tomorrow is Lent! And I'm not talking about the stuff from the dryer :).” Spice it up a bit. An example of educating or enlightening my friends and fans is when I give updates to guests on my radio show or upcoming publications.
Have fun: This ties into being creative. Part of the reason you are participating on these sites is to have fun! Don’t be too afraid to say something about yourself. We do want to know you better. (Well, not everything...keep the mundane things to yourself. But I do want to hear about the joys in your life.)
DON’T:
Don’t be TOO Personal: If you’re going to describe your adventures leaving town, that’s fine, but remember your audience. Do you really want people to know your home will be vacant for two weeks while you’re traveling? There have been reports of people coming home to empty houses because they indicated they would gone for a long period of time with no one to house sit. Just keep this in mind as you write.
Think before you “tweet”: Even it the only people you allow on your sites are close friends and colleagues, it doesn’t mean others cannot access your information. And to prove it, Google yourself. If you’re on Twitter, most likely one of your “tweets” might be published. I once wrote what I thought was a cute comment about going out with my girlfriends the night before. I innocently wrote that mojitos and cosmopolitans do not mix. The next day my PR person called me in a panic questioning my statement. I couldn’t understand how she knew about it since she wasn’t on Twitter. She explained that she was “Googling” me to determine if any of my interviews had been printed. She brought up a good point, that if she can find those comments, so could potential clients. And they don’t need to assume what I meant by my statement (for the record- I really was a good girl that night).
Remember it’s FOREVER: Friends come and go, and opinions change. So remember what ever you put in writing, especially on the internet, will last forever! Be nice to people and be open minded when it comes to your opinions. One day you might interview for a job and the hiring person may feel very different about your opinions. (Yes, potential employers are researching you on the internet.)
As with any technology, there are wonderful benefits and pitfalls. YOU can decide how to manage it and determine how it impacts your life.
